Chosen by Gov. John Kitzhaber, she oversaw a big change in the way Oregon funds and operates some of its early childhood programs by arranging for regional "early learning hubs" that bring together childcare, education and health officials to jointly coordinate services in their area.

And, during her tenure, Oregon won a $30 million federal early childhood grant.

She said told The (Vancouver) Columbian in 2012 that she planned to continue living in Camas, Wash., during her time in the Oregon role. That would mean a daily commute to and from Salem lasting about 66 miles and 90 minutes each way.